Yohimbe bark (pronounced yoh-heem-buh) is an herbal supplement associated with anti-aging effects. It is used to naturally treat erectile dysfunction, low libido, hormonal imbalances and symptoms like low energy. Yohimbe has a long history of use in Western Africa, where the plant originates. It’s still grown there today, especially for its apparent aphrodisiac abilities.

Due to its ability to inhibit actions of the sympathetic nervous system, yohimbe can help to bring blood pressure levels back to balance. This is is why it’s used to sometimes increase blood flow, such as to tissues of the reproductive organs. Or, also why it’s used to treat hypotension (abnormally low blood pressure). It may also be helpful for stimulating nerves and treating fatigue or symptoms of depression.

When given orally, yohimbine reaches peak levels in 10–15 min, and the half-life is 0.6 h. The efficacy of yohimbine in sexual function has been questioned, perhaps because of early questionable multidrug preparations.10,11 Yohimbine has been shown to have some effect on psychologic erectile dysfunction12,13 and in reversing fluoxetine-induced sexual dysfunction.14

Scientists have found a consistent link between maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding erectile problems. In one Italian study, researchers followed 110 obese men experiencing ED over the course of two years. Of the participants that lost the most weight, 31% ceased to suffer from ED. In the group that lost the least weight, only 5% of the men saw an improvement.
What it’ll do for you: “Yohimbe dilates the blood vessels and can lower blood pressure,” says Dr. Patrick M. Fratellone, an integrated physician with a practice in Manhattan. “So experts figured, if it can do that, it must give you an erection and treat erectile dysfunction.” Some proponents say that yohimbe extracts are powerful antioxidants that can prevent heart attacks, act as a stimulant and an anti-depressant, and an aid to weight loss. Here, a closer look at the key benefits:

Due to its ability to inhibit actions of the sympathetic nervous system, yohimbe can help to bring blood pressure levels back to balance. This is is why it’s used to sometimes increase blood flow, such as to tissues of the reproductive organs. Or, also why it’s used to treat hypotension (abnormally low blood pressure). It may also be helpful for stimulating nerves and treating fatigue or symptoms of depression.

These results are remarkable, because it appears that not only can niacin improve short term erectile function in many men, but also can likely help to reverse arterial plaque if a comprehensive program is undertaken. Of course, neither I nor anyone else knows how safe megadosed niacin is long term, but many experts consider it safe when used under the care of a knowledgeable physician. You'll have to do your own due diligence.
If you’re experiencing psychological ED, you may benefit from talk therapy. Therapy can help you manage your mental health. You’ll likely work with your therapist over several sessions, and your therapist will address things like major stress or anxiety factors, feelings around sex, or subconscious conflicts that could be affecting your sexual well-being.
Yohimbine may be stacked with other supplements to improve erection quality and/or expedite fat loss. If you're consuming yohimbine to improve your erection quality, then stack it with horny goat weed. [3] Animal models support a yohimbine dose of 0.2mg/kg of bodyweight stacked with a 55 to 110mg dose of horny goat weed to significantly increases erection strength. [16]
Even at the higher doses of yohimbine, no changes in blood pressure or pulse were noted. This agent would appear to be safe in men with medically controlled hypertension. There was an increase in the morning cortisol levels in all men; the value was higher but not significantly so in responders. Telöken et al18 reported a high percentage (80%) of adverse events, but these authors administered a large dose (100 mg) of yohimbine. A toxic overdose of 200 mg produced only tachycardia, elevated blood pressure and anxiety of brief duration.33 Even direct intravenous dosing of yohimbine raised the mean arterial blood pressure by 12%,34 Goldstein et al35 systematically administered yohimbine and noted large hemodynamic and norepinephrine responses in both normal and hypertensive men; only the men who had a history of anxiety, depression, or other psychopathologic factors had symptoms. Oral administration of yohimbine at standard doses or even four tablets (21.6 mg) at a time has had no effect on blood pressure.4 Elevated blood pressure and heart rate were recorded when eight tablets (43.2 mg) were given at one time.3
The positive response in our patients was enhanced with the higher dose of yohimbine, a phenomenon noted previously.20,21 We agree that several weeks of therapy are needed before clinical effects are seen,21,22 and that some responders may be able to take yohimbine only on demand before sexual activity.39 Yohimbine is effective in a subset of men with organic erectile dysfunction, especially nonsmokers, and it deserves a place in our therapeutic armamentarium. When yohimbine is ineffective alone, it may be useful in combination with other treatment modalities, as has been shown with naloxone39 or trazodone.40
In fact, dyslipidemia is commonly found in ED patients, and studies show that statins can help to improve the response of PDE5 inhibitors in those suffering from ED precisely because they improve atherosclerosis. Consequently, statins can be used as a treatment in patients with an unsatisfactory response to PDE5 inhibitors, yet there are problems with statins too, among them raised liver enzymes and muscle problems, some of which can be quite serious and even deadly (rhabdomylosis).
So what causes erectile dysfunction? Sometimes it is a circulation problem. Sometimes it is a low testosterone issue. Sometimes it is not. Testosterone (T) supplementation can help ED and low libido in cases of low T and even if there is a normal T level at baseline, ED can be helped. In cases where thyroid under or overactivity is causing T levels to be less than optimal. Aging is also a problem as T levels drop after mid 20’s and as adipose tissue increases and aromatase enzyme conversion of T to Estrogen correspondingly increases. This causes an unfavorable E:T ratio which equates to low T.
Although not direct proof of cause and effect, the positive results that we report in half of the men in the current study may reinforce our clinical observation with objective RigiScan™ data that use of yohimbine might be associated with better effects in nonsmokers. We30 reported that cessation of smoking may rapidly improve nocturnal erectile activity and found that nicotine was not the noxious agent in our study. We postulated that carbon monoxide might create a hypoxic environment in the penis. This effect probably was mediated through restoration of nitric oxide activity.31
Niacin is another class of lipid-lowering agents, about which research dates back at least 55 years.2 Not only does niacin lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C, the “bad” cholesterol), total cholesterol, and triglycerides, it increases HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C, the “good” cholesterol) by inhibition of lipolysis in adipose tissue, which eventually leads to improvement in all lipid parameters. Furthermore, there are studies suggesting that niacin can improve the clinical outcome in cardiovascular disease, and that it may lead to the regression of atherosclerotic plaque. Dyslipidemia is closely related to erectile dysfunction (ED) and evidence has shown that statins can improve erectile function. However, the potential role of that other lipid-lowering agent, niacin, hasn’t been known until now.
In the 1700s, pellagra was an endemic disease in northern Italy—which had not been known until maize (corn) was introduced from America. Italy gave the disease the name, “pelle agra” (pelle means skin; agra means rough). Casal had observed that patients with pellagra were all poor, subsisted mainly on maize, and rarely ate fresh meat. Because pellagra outbreaks occurred in regions of Europe where maize was a dominant food crop, the belief was that maize either carried a toxic substance or was a carrier of disease. When it was later noted that there were few pellagra outbreaks in Mesoamerica, where maize is a major food crop (and is processed), it was considered that the causes of pellagra may be due to factors other than toxins.
It’s best to take yohimbe when fasting, first thing in the morning, or between meals. Because it has stimulating effects, don’t combine yohimbe with other stimulants like caffeine or weight loss pills. These may cause reactions like faster heart rate, anxiety, high blood pressure or even cardiovascular complications. If you are planning on having caffeine along wth yohimbe (such as coffee or tea in the morning), start with a half-dose in order to test your reaction.
Erection is a complex physiological process in which vascular factors play a pre-eminent role. Therapeutic options for men with arteriogenic erectile dysfunction (ED) are mainly administration of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, intracavernous injections of vasoactive agents (for example, prostaglandin El, papaverine/phentolamine, or triple drug), intraurethral administration of prostaglandin El, and administration of centrally acting drugs (11, 12). However, all of these methods circumvent the patient's problem temporarily, and patients are not cured of impotence, they will remain dependent on these treatments for the remainder of their sexually active lives. An effective treatment that cures the problem permanently is needed where penile revascularization and exercise remain treatment options for such patients. However, due to the complexity of penile revascularization such as cost ineffectiveness, unavailability of experts, side effects of surgery and high failure rates among the elderly (13) have left people with ED at the mercy of exercise.
They found that men who exercised the most were also the most likely to have higher scores in sexual function. Specifically, those who expended 18 METS, or metabolic equivalents, per week were most likely to enjoy sex. METS is a physiological measurement that denotes the amount of energy a person spends on a specific activity, as well as the intensity of it. According to the researchers, 18 METS was equal to about two hours of strenuous exercise like running or swimming, 3.5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise, or six hours of light exercise.

There have been some studies to suggest that a placebo effect that improves ED may work for some men. One study found that men taking an oral placebo pill showed as much improvement in ED symptoms as men who took actual medication to improve ED. Conversely, men who were given therapeutic suggestions to improve ED did not see signs of symptom improvement.

To maximize efficacy, you should consume this stack in a fasted or semi-fasted state and at least 6 hours before bedtime. This stack is going to significantly increase your heart rate and blood pressure so be watch out for overexertion if you choose to take the ECY stack immediately before an intense weightlifting session. Some users also choose to alternate consuming EC and EY to obtain some of the positive effects without being overstimulated.
You may know horny goat weed from its omnipresence behind the counter at your local convenience store, but this traditional Chinese formula is less sketchy than it sounds. Used for centuries to treat low libido and erectile dysfunction, the herb’s potential efficacy was show in a 2010 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine. Researchers who fed the supplement to rats found they had improved erectile function; another study showed that the supplement can block a natural chemical that wilts erections. (Just be warned: Viagra was found to be 80 times more powerful.)
Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy has been proposed as a new non-invasive treatment for erectile dysfunction caused by problems with blood vessels. Shock wave therapy machines are now available in some medical practices in Australia. Although there is some evidence that it may help a proportion of men with erectile dysfunction, more research is needed before clear recommendations on its use can be made.
Handful of things can cause erectile dysfunction, but healthy vitamins supply for erection will make your sex life very soothing and romantic. Healthy blood vessels are necessary for good circulation, as blood is pumped around the body to carry nutrients to the cells. Vitamins can help the blood vessels to dilate or open so blood can fill the manhood.
Before taking any medication for erectile dysfunction, including over-the-counter supplements and herbal remedies, get your doctor's OK. Medications for erectile dysfunction do not work in all men and might be less effective in certain conditions, such as after prostate surgery or if you have diabetes. Some medications might also be dangerous if you:
The HSE recommends that adults should complete 30 minutes of moderate intensity activity such as brisk walking or gentle cycling at least five days a week. If you’re new to exercising this is a good place to start – particularly if you are in poor health or are overweight. The longer you keep up your exercise plan, the more activity you can add to it; just remember not to put too much strain on yourself too early. For more help, here’s our guide to starting out.
If you’re experiencing psychological ED, you may benefit from talk therapy. Therapy can help you manage your mental health. You’ll likely work with your therapist over several sessions, and your therapist will address things like major stress or anxiety factors, feelings around sex, or subconscious conflicts that could be affecting your sexual well-being.

A 2000 study conducted at the Institute of Sexology in Paris found that muira puama, a Brazilian shrub traditionally used in South African folk medicine as an aphrodisiac, increased libido and erection strength in a majority of men who complained of impotence and a lack of sexual desire. Other studies show this happy-making herb also counteracts chronic stress, depression and nervous exhaustion.

In addition, when research has shown a nutrient such as zinc or niacin to improve sexual function, it's usually in people who are deficient in it. So, before you stock up on over-the-counter nutritional supplements for ED, speak with your doctor. He can test you for deficiencies and steer you toward the most effective and safest way to treat your erectile dysfunction.
You may find that using a vacuum device requires some practice or adjustment. Using the device may make your penis feel cold or numb and have a purple color. You also may have bruising on your penis. However, the bruises are most often painless and disappear in a few days. Vacuum devices may weaken ejaculation but, in most cases, the devices do not affect the pleasure of climax, or orgasm.

Although not every study has shown that yohimbe can have slimming effects, certain other studies have found positive results. One study found that yohimbine significantly increased mean weight loss in overweight female patients following a low-energy diet. (12) Possible mechanisms of action include: boosting lipolysis (the breakdown of fats and other lipids by releasing fatty acids into the blood) both during and following exercise, regulating insulin secretion, and reducing appetite. (13)

Due to its ability to inhibit actions of the sympathetic nervous system, yohimbe can help to bring blood pressure levels back to balance. This is is why it’s used to sometimes increase blood flow, such as to tissues of the reproductive organs. Or, also why it’s used to treat hypotension (abnormally low blood pressure). It may also be helpful for stimulating nerves and treating fatigue or symptoms of depression.

Erectile Dysfunction is an embarrassing and frustrating condition among many men. There are several reasons behind this. Most of the time, it is caused by certain medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity, as well as low testosterone. Other reasons may also include problems in blood flow, psychological issues, nerve damage, as well as hormonal fluctuations.
Many studies have been conducted on this topic; their results have been challenged by lack of controlled groups and non-randomization. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are generally accepted as the most valid method for determining the efficacy of a therapeutic intervention, because the biases associated with other experimental designs can be avoided.Non-randomized controlled trials, can detect associations between an intervention and an outcome. But they cannot rule out the possibility that the association was caused by a third factor linked to both intervention and outcome. Random allocation ensures no systematic differences between intervention groups in factors, known and unknown, that may affect outcome. Randomized controlled trials are the most rigorous way of determining whether a cause-effect relation exists between treatment and outcome and for assessing the cost effectiveness of a treatment (45, 22).

Clinical trials were included if they met all of the following inclusion criteria: study population defined; Men with arteriogenic ED were considered; the present review was concerned with studies that used aerobic exercise on ED; only randomized controlled trials on this topic were selected for review; The main outcome measure was satisfactory intercourse without additional therapy using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction (IIED) scores. The present review utilized studies that had successfully undergone rigorous peer review (i.e., published peerreviewed journals), were included.

The phrase “use it before you lose it” can be applied when it comes to helping men with ED regain normal erectile function. Pelvic exercises, more commonly known as kegel exercises, are used to promote urinary continence and sexual health. They help to strengthen the bulbocavernosus muscle, which does three things: allows the penis to engorge with blood during erection, it pumps during ejaculation, and it helps empty the urethra after urination, according to Healthline.
A double-blind, partial crossover study on the therapeutic effect of yohimbine hydrochloride on erectile dysfunction was done in 82 sexually impotent patients. All patients underwent a multifactorial evaluation, including determination of penile brachial blood pressure index, cavernosography, sacral evoked response, testosterone and prolactin determination, Derogatis sexual dysfunction inventory and daytime arousal test. After 1 month of treatment with a maximum of 42.0 mg. oral yohimbine hydrochloride daily 14 per cent of the patients experienced restoration of full and sustained erections, 20 per cent reported a partial response to the therapy and 65 per cent reported no improvement. Three patients reported a positive placebo effect. Maximum effect takes 2 to 3 weeks to manifest itself. Yohimbine was active in some patients with arterial insufficiency and a unilateral sacral reflex arc lesion, and in 1 with low serum testosterone levels. The 34 per cent response is encouraging, particularly in a Veterans Administration population presenting with a high incidence of diabetes and vascular pathological conditions not found in regular office patients. Only few and benign side effects were recorded, which makes this medication worth an attempt, often as a first line of treatment even at a dose of 8 tablets.
Motivated by philosophers that included John Locke (the most influential of Enlightenment thinkers), Voltaire, Newton, and Leibniz, ruling princes throughout Europe endorsed and fostered the intelligentsia of the Enlightenment. Some of these rulers even attempted to apply the ideas of the enlightenment to government. When grasped by “natural aristocrats,” the Enlightenment was particularly successful in America where it influenced Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson, among many others, and fueled the fires that led to the American Revolution, the Declaration of Independence, and the creation of the United States.
Yohimbe can interact with several drugs and medications, so it’s not safe for everybody to use. Don’t take yohimbe bark if you’re currently taking any ACE inhibitor drug, beta blocker, SSRI drug, MAOI, stimulants or caffeine-containing drugs, or tricyclic antidepressant drugs. Those who have any of the conditions listed below should not take herbal treatments like yohimbe without speaking with a doctor first. This is because it may affect things like blood pressure, heart health, kidney function and neurotransmitter functions:
Long considered an aphrodisiac by the Chinese, ginseng may do more than just rev your engine. A 2013 South Korean study found that taking the herb for just a few weeks improved guys’ performance in the bedroom, including helping them last longer before finishing. Meanwhile, a study in Spermatogenesis found that ginseng can also help make for harder, longer-lasting erections and improve testosterone levels, which in turn boosts libido. “Ginseng is a promising herbal therapy for ED because it helps promote relaxation of smooth muscle in the penis, increase dopamine levels in the brain, and increase pressure in the cavernosal nerves of the penis which helps nitric oxide synthesis,” Walker explains.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ingesting levels of zinc in excess of the recommended dietary amount will result in diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. The maximum amount of daily zinc consumption recommended is 40 milligrams per day. Symptoms of too much zinc intake include nausea and headaches. If you have reason to suspect you have ingested too much zinc, contact a medical professional.